Question · Q3 2025
Katharine with BTIG asked about the recovery in commercial real estate (CRE) transaction activity and liquidity, specifically whether it's observed in both the U.S. and Europe, and if this recovery might lead to a larger portion of Blackstone Mortgage Trust's origination activity pivoting back to U.S. loans. She also inquired about the potential earnings uplift from the REO portfolio and any incremental capital needs for the New York City hotel asset.
Answer
Tim Johnson, Chairman and Incoming CEO, confirmed liquidity has returned to both U.S. and European markets, with the U.S. showing stronger recovery driven by its established CMBS market. He noted the platform's ability to assess relative value across regions, expecting the U.S. to remain the largest share of investment activity long-term. Austin Peña, EVP of Investments, stated that REO assets are not generating target returns, and exiting them will drive additional earnings power. He added that no significant CapEx is needed for REO assets, including the NYC hotel, and the company has over $1.3 billion in liquidity.